Savory Shrimp Saganaki Recipe: A Cozy Greek Seafood Delight

Seafood lovers rejoice as this vibrant shrimp saganaki recipe brings a taste of Greek coastal cuisine straight to your kitchen.

The sizzling combination of plump shrimp dancing in a rich tomato sauce creates an irresistible Mediterranean masterpiece.

Fragrant herbs and tangy feta cheese elevate each bite with authentic Greek flavors.

Fresh ingredients merge beautifully in this one-pan wonder that promises restaurant-quality results at home.

Generous chunks of shrimp nestle perfectly in the spicy, aromatic sauce, making every forkful a delightful experience.

Impress your dinner companions with this simple yet spectacular dish that captures the essence of Greek culinary traditions.

Prepare to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with this mouthwatering meal.

FAQs

• What is saganaki and how does it relate to this dish?

Saganaki traditionally refers to Greek appetizers served in a small frying pan, often featuring cheese or seafood. This shrimp version brings together classic Mediterranean ingredients like tomatoes, feta, and fresh herbs.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.

• Is this dish spicy?

The recipe as written is not spicy, but you can easily add heat by including red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process.

• What type of tomatoes work best for this recipe?

Fresh, ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes are ideal. They burst nicely and create a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Shrimp Saganaki Unique Features

• Elevate Your Weeknight Dining: Transform an ordinary meal into a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
• Quick Mediterranean Escape: Whip up a vibrant, authentic Greek dish that transports your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece without complex techniques.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup by preparing this delicious shrimp dish in a single skillet, saving time and reducing post-cooking hassle.
• Family and Friends Favorite: Impress your loved ones with a colorful, zesty seafood recipe that appeals to both adults and adventurous young eaters.

Shrimp Saganaki Ingredient Rundown

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides the protein base for this Greek-inspired dish.
• Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes create a rich and flavorful sauce for the shrimp.
• Feta Cheese: Tangy Greek cheese that adds a creamy and salty finish to the dish.

• Shallot, Garlic: Provide a deep, savory flavor foundation for the recipe.

• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the ingredients.
• Olives: Bring a briny, Mediterranean taste to the dish.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Brighten the flavors with a citrusy, fresh note.
• Dill: Adds a light, herbal complexity to the shrimp saganaki.
• Water: Helps create the desired sauce consistency.

Cooking Up Shrimp Saganaki

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatics

Drizzle olive oil into a deep skillet and let it warm up.

Toss in finely chopped shallots and minced garlic, allowing them to dance and release their delightful fragrance for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and golden.

Step 2: Unleash Tomato Magic

Introduce ripe, juicy tomatoes to the skillet and watch them burst and break down.

• Kalamata olives
• Water

Simmer and stir until the sauce transforms into a thick, rich consistency, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Embrace Succulent Shrimp

Gently nestle plump shrimp into the tomato mixture.

Cover the skillet and let the shrimp cook until they turn a beautiful pink color, which takes approximately 3 minutes.

Step 4: Create Flavor Harmony

• Fresh lemon zest
• Tangy lemon juice
• Delicate chopped dill

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top to add a creamy, salty finish that brings the entire dish together.

Shrimp Saganaki Helpful Tips

• Choose medium-sized, deveined shrimp for quick and even cooking, ensuring tender and juicy results.
• Gently press tomatoes while cooking to release natural juices and create a rich, thick sauce without excess liquid.
• Crumble feta cheese just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from becoming too melted or dry.
• Add dill and lemon zest at the end of cooking to preserve their bright, aromatic qualities and prevent flavor loss.
• Watch shrimp closely and remove from heat immediately when they turn pink to avoid rubbery, tough texture.

Shrimp Saganaki Tasty Variations

• Mediterranean Veggie Swap: Replace shrimp with white beans or chickpeas for a plant-based protein alternative that maintains the classic Greek flavor profile.
• Spicy Mediterranean Version: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to increase heat and create a more intense flavor experience.
• Low-Carb Seafood Option: Skip traditional ingredients and use cauliflower instead of tomatoes, and replace water with seafood stock for enhanced richness.
• Gluten-Free Clean Eating: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly checking olives and feta cheese for potential cross-contamination.

Creative Ways to Serve Shrimp Saganaki

• Greek Island Feast: Serve this sizzling skillet directly at the table for a dramatic, family-style presentation that captures Mediterranean charm.
• Crusty Bread Companion: Grab a rustic baguette or sourdough to soak up the rich, tangy tomato sauce and capture every delicious drop.
• Fresh Salad Pairing: Complement the dish with a crisp Greek salad featuring cucumber, red onion, and kalamata olives to balance the warm, hearty shrimp.
• Wine Harmony: Pour a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the bright, zesty flavors of the saganaki.

Storage Tips for Shrimp Saganaki Leftovers

• Store leftover Shrimp Saganaki in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
• Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water to help restore moisture and prevent drying out.
• While possible, freezing is not recommended as the texture of shrimp and tomatoes will change. Dairy components like feta can separate and become grainy when thawed.
• This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. The vibrant flavors and tender shrimp are most delicious when served hot and fresh from the pan.

Shrimp Saganaki Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Greek coastal charm meets culinary magic in this mouthwatering Shrimp Saganaki, where succulent shrimp dance with tomatoes, feta, and herbs. Sizzling skillet flavors will transport Mediterranean warmth directly to your dining table, promising a delicious escape with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Base:

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (40 grams) shallot, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped

Main Components:

• 2 cups (300 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup (50 grams) kalamata olives, halved
• 1 1/4 pounds (570 grams) jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 ounces (170 grams) feta cheese, cubed small

Seasonings & Aromatics:

• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh dill, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat, sautéing shallots and garlic until they release their aromatic essence and turn translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes.
2. Introduce fresh tomatoes to the skillet, allowing them to soften and burst, creating a rich base. Incorporate olives and a splash of water, simmering until the sauce thickens and develops a robust consistency, roughly 2-3 minutes.
3. Gently nestle raw shrimp into the tomato mixture, covering the skillet to ensure even cooking. Let the shrimp transform into a vibrant pink color, indicating they are perfectly cooked, about 3 minutes.
4. Elevate the dish’s brightness by stirring in freshly grated lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice. Sprinkle chopped dill for an herbaceous note. Complete the preparation by crumbling tangy feta cheese over the top, creating a creamy and flavorful finish.

Notes

• Boost flavor by using fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper, smokier taste profile.
• Ensure shrimp are not overcooked by removing them immediately once they turn pink to prevent rubbery texture.
• Opt for fresh dill and squeeze lemon juice right before serving to maintain bright, vibrant flavors.
• Accommodate gluten-free diets by verifying feta cheese is certified gluten-free and serving with gluten-free bread or rice.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 180 mg